DNA Decision Draws Questions From Vandy Law Prof

Vanderbilt University law professor Chris Slobogin is questioning this week's U.S. Supreme Court decision that affirms the practice of taking DNA samples of people charged with serious crimes as a customary part of booking suspects. While some local law enforcement agencies view it as a vote of confidence, Slobogin says the 5-4 decision opens the door to routine DNA sampling of any person arrested for a crime, including people who turn out to be innocent. Although Tennessee’s law only applies to suspects connected to serious crimes, Slobogin questions if the high court’s decision could prompt state lawmakers to broaden the law, possibly infringing on innocent people’s Fourth Amendment rights. The Tennessean has the story.